Ethyl l-lactate

Ethyl L-Lactate (CAS 687-47-8) is the L-enantiomer of ethyl lactate, a naturally derived ester produced by the esterification of lactic acid with ethanol. It is also referred to as Ethyl (S)-Lactate or (-)-Ethyl Lactate. No E-code is assigned; it functions as a direct chemical ingredient rather than a regulated food additive.

In food and flavor applications, it delivers a mild, creamy dairy note and acts as a carrier solvent to disperse flavor compounds evenly through a formulation. In plastics processing, it functions as a heat stabilizer by scavenging acidic degradation byproducts that would otherwise accelerate polymer breakdown. Personal care formulators use it as a skin-conditioning solvent that improves ingredient penetration without aggressive solvency.

Ethyl L-Lactate is available in food-grade and technical-grade forms, with food-grade material meeting FCC specifications. It is fully REACH-registered for supply within the EU. Typical packaging includes drums and IBC containers, with HS code 29181100 applicable for import and export documentation.